Hamleys History
Hamleys is the oldest and largest toy shop in the world has been an icon of Regent Street since it opened here in 1881. Delighting generation after generation of children, it has survived a dozen recessions and being bombed twice during WWII, determined to keep a smile on the public’s face in hard times.
Originally opened as Noah’s Ark in Holborn in 1760, it was a huge success, and one step further in realising the dream of founder William Hamley to build the best toy shop in the world. During Victorian times, the appetite for toys grew and an opportunity to take their well-loved toy store to the next level opened. The new Regent Street store added five more floors of toys, a veritable wonderland for children up and down the country.
Hamleys Nowadays
Today, the seven floors remain just as filled with fun and frolics as they did when they first opened. Packed full of cuddly toys, dressing up clothes, Lego, Barbies, ball games, and much, much more to spark the imagination of young and old alike. It’s impossible to miss with its red flags waving outside and entertainers blowing bubbles and demonstrating the newest toy trends to lure in passers-by.
The store hosts themed birthday parties for lucky boys and girls, hosted by the famous Hamleys entertainers, packed full of activities, yummy party food and goodie bags to take home. For those really looking to splash out on a magical experience, the entire store can be booked out for a sleepover party. At Christmas time, the top floor is transformed into Santa’s grotto for their highly-anticipated Father Christmas Experience, with tickets selling out fast to meet the man himself!